Damian Martin: More than a game in play as Wildcats pay tribute to Anthony Exeter

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Today we are reminded that although sport is a game, it can represent something much bigger, much more important.

Sport can be a platform to recognise the life of someone who was taken away way too soon. Today when you see us wearing black armbands we are paying our respects to Anthony Exeter, his wife, son, daughter and loved ones.

Anthony was killed in a freak car accident last week.

He played more than 300 SBL games and influenced the careers of many players.

From the people I’ve spoken to it’s the mateship and laughter Anthony was responsible for that they will miss most. Prior to today’s game against Melbourne United at RAC Arena there will be a minute’s silence, and standing in front of each of the Wildcats will be a member of the junior basketball team Anthony coached.

Included in that team is his son Jaden. As a father with baby No.2 due any day, my heart breaks for all involved, his children in particular.

At quarter-time, Anthony’s daughter Mia will be a part of the dance team on court.

While she is doing what she loves, hopefully it will ease the sadness, if only for a few minutes.

That we need to string together some wins to make a play-off push is motivation enough for us to give our best, but when fatigue sets in today I guarantee the meaning behind this game — and knowing who is in the crowd watching — will give us extra energy.

I’ll never criticise the effort or intent of my teammates. I know how badly each player wants to get back in the winners’ column.

Today, against the reigning champs Melbourne United, we know we have to be at our best to get the win. With seven games remaining it means we are officially starting the last quarter of the regular season. First three are done. We can’t change the results. Time to refocus and treat it as a whole new season.